Thomas S. Bancroft

April 1, 1928 - August 20, 2012

Thomas S. Bancroft, 84, of North Dartmouth, passed away on Monday, August 20, 2012 at St. Luke's Hospital following a brief illness. He was the husband of Eileen M. (Blanchard) Bancroft with whom he shared 64 years of marriage.

Born in New Bedford, a son of the late Henry C. and Evelyn H. (Sparling) Bancroft, he was raised in New Bedford and resided in Dartmouth for the past 52 years.

Mr. Bancroft received his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the New Bedford Institute of Technology, class of 1960, and was a Registered Professional Engineer in Massachusetts. He was a United States Navy Veteran having served during the Korean War.

He was an employee of the Acushnet Company Rubber Division holding various positions from 1960 until he retired in 1993 as Head of Research and Development. He was also a local businessman as part owner of Mendell Electric Supply Company.

Tom was a lifelong sailor and always available to lend a helping hand to someone in need.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his children, Stephen P. Bancroft and his wife Carol of Seabeck, WA, Kathleen A. Bancroft of Dartmouth and Christine M. Gruner and her husband Oliver of Franklin, MA; his grandchildren, Thomas and Shannon Bancroft, Elizabeth Wainio, Lisa, Megan and Tricia Lemieux, Lucas and Lyndon Gruner; his great-grandchildren, Cameron, Cody, Sheridan and Collin Bancroft, Remington Lolly and Phoebe Wainio; and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late William C. Bancroft.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, August 25, 2012 at 8:30am from the Waring-Sullivan Home of Memorial Tribute at Dartmouth, 230 Russells Mills Rd., Dartmouth followed by a funeral mass at 9:30am at St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Rd, Dartmouth. Visiting hours Friday 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Burial in South Dartmouth Cemetery.